Norwich City Manager’s Optimism for Josh Sargent
Liam Manning, the manager of Norwich City, expressed hopes that star forward Josh Sargent will remain with the club as the transfer window closes. This optimism comes on the heels of a strong start to the season for Sargent, who has scored in each of his first three appearances, including a crucial goal during a 2-1 victory over Portsmouth on Saturday. Sargent, who wore the captain’s armband during this match, had also found the net in the Carabao Cup earlier this week, highlighting his importance to the team.
Speculation and Leadership
Speculation surrounding Sargent’s potential departure has lingered, particularly following his near-transfer to Wolfsburg for over €21 million ($24.4 million) earlier this summer, a move he ultimately chose to decline. Manning humorously remarked,
“I hope Ben [Knapper, the director of football] turns his phone off so we don’t receive any calls regarding him.”
He praised Sargent’s leadership, professionalism, and work ethic, stating,
“He is a role model for everything you want in a player.”
Josh Sargent’s Career Highlights
The 25-year-old forward joined Norwich from Werder Bremen in 2021 and recorded 15 goals in the Championship last season. Following his performance in the Carabao Cup against Watford, Manning named him the “best striker in the Championship.” With 28 caps for the U.S. men’s national team, Sargent is vying for a spot in coach Mauricio Pochettino’s squad for the upcoming World Cup, which will take place next summer in the United States. However, he faces challenges in converting club success into international performance, as he has not scored for the national team in over five years.